WHAT: Forty-five inmates from Broward Correctional Institution will be presented with their diplomas and technical certificates for earning GEDs and vocational training on 11/17/10, at 1:00 PM EST. Reporters are invited to the graduation ceremony and to film/interview the graduates and teachers, some of whom are inmates themselves. The GED test consists of five parts and is similar to a high school degree. To earn a GED, one must pass a five part test consisting of reading/language and writing (including an essay), math, social studies and science. If you fail just one part of the test, you do not earn a GED, but can retake the part you failed at a later time. Career and technical programs involve classroom participation of 150-1600 hours. Programs offered at Broward Correction Institution include: Personal Computer Support, Commercial Art Technology, and Fashion Design. Students are awarded certificates of achievement by the Florida Department of Education.

Broward Correctional Institution is an adult female facility and reception center located in Broward County. It currently houses 700+ inmates ranging in custody from minimum to maximum. Laura Griffin has been named the class valedictorian.

WHY: Inmates have a better chance of staying out of prison if they have basic education. (Studies show inmates who have a GED when released recidivate at a rate 7.9% less than inmates overall.) The number of Florida state inmates earning GED certificates has nearly doubled in three years, increasing from 1,313 in FY 2006-07 to 2,603 awarded in FY 2009-10. The increase in GEDs earned can be attributed to several factors, including more frequent testing cycles to catch problem areas early; implementing voluntary literacy programs at our work camps; and the use of trained inmate teaching assistants.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: If you’d like to attend, please contact Kathy Conner at (772) 468-3933 or 559-4426, so a background check can be completed.

DIRECTIONS TO PRISON: From I-75 (Pembroke Pines) exit onto Sheridan Street West. Travel west approximately three miles, the institution will be on your right. From US-27, travel east on Sheridan Street for approximately one mile. The institution will be on your left.